Undercurrent Architects were deeply constrained by both the site and regulations but managed to push through with this striking design

Located in Southward, Archway Studios stands on a former brownfield site that was left to sour, and that kind of regeneration is an important part of Undercurrent’s professional ethos. Keen to make do with existing conditions, they applied their creative wit to a fully functional hybrid space that is clad in a striking weathered steel shell.

Measures were taken to protect the inhabitants acoustically from the outside noise and to keep the space airy and light. A skylight allows daylighting to fill the interior, which is remarkably contemporary in comparison with its industrial-chic facade, adorned as it is with fresh, natural materials. “As one of 10,000 arches that dissect neighbourhoods across London, it is a model that can be adapted for broad community benefit and regeneration,” say the designers, and we definitely agree.